Tips For Selling In The Muskoka Lakes Region

As one of the most desirable (and expensive!) areas in Southern Ontario, the Muskoka Lakes region attracts a variety of buyers: those wishing to purchase a vacation property, those searching for the perfect place to retire, or even those who are longing for a permanent, year-round residence away from the big city. 

But about the market for those who wish to sell? Isn’t this an easy process in a location that’s so sought-after? Not necessarily! There are a few things that you should be aware of before you put your Muskoka home up for sale, and we’ll go through some of them below. 

Know Your Home’s Worth

Before you decide to list your Muskoka home, you’ll want to do a little bit—or a lot!—of market research. This will help you make an informed decision and set your expectations when it comes to price point. 

By looking at similar listings, both active and recently sold, you can get a better idea of how much your home is really worth. While you wouldn’t want to price your home too high or too low (each having their own unsatisfactory outcome), a professional appraisal can also be done if you feel like you’re really unsure. If a partner or family member is also involved in the selling process, make sure to discuss your offer expectations. 

Start by looking in your neighborhood or general area, and branch out into properties that have similar features located nearby. For Muskoka, that might be an exclusive waterfront or forest location. Be sure to take note of square footage, upgrades, and number of bedrooms and bathrooms. As well, any recent renovations are important to factor in, as well. 

Think About Finances

Along with considering your home’s worth, you’ll want to factor in the various fees and expenses you may need before listings. This can include everything from a home staging company to a contractor for home repairs. Even if you consider your home to be in perfect condition, it's beneficial to get some advice from experts (such as a realtor) as to how to make your home more appealing to potential buyers. 

Selling a home in Muskoka requires additional expenses, such as taxes, although these are typically incorporated into closing costs. As well, consider your mortgage and whether it has been paid off. A home inspection, although usually a contingency when a buyer is making an offer, might be beneficial to get before you list, so you are aware of anything that might be a problem. 

Get Ready For Selling

It’s simple really: you’ll want your home to look its best for the selling process in order to attract buyers. Whether that means a home staging service or taking on small renovations yourself, consider the following before listing your home for sale:

• Declutter and organize your space and remove all sensitive documents/photos from sight

• Touch up small imperfections (dents in walls, stains on carpeting, scratches on floors) if possible

• Take the time to clean up (this includes getting rid of odours), and ensure that your home’s exterior is looking just as nice as the interior—this is often overlooked

• Add finishing touches, such as flowers, a new centerpiece, or new throw pillows

If you’re getting ready for professional photography or an open house, you may also want to replace old furniture, open all the windows, and make sure that your front door is easily accessible to those who enter.

Ask The Expert: A Muskoka Realtor

How do you know for sure that you will get the best deal on your property? By getting the help of an expert, of course! This may just be the most important factor when it comes to selling your home, but finding the perfect realtor can be a bit tricky.

A Muskoka realtor, such as Heather Scott, knows the real estate market best. With years of experience buying and selling, there’s really no better option. Plus, real estate professionals often have additional expertise in the fields of home staging and renovation advice, so your home is in the best hands possible—and will sell at the best price.

If you’re interested in selling your Muskoka area home, contact someone with unparalleled area knowledge and professionalism. Contact Heather Scott of seriouslymuskoka.com today!